$20K Grant Brings Vital Support to Native Buffalo Ranchers

South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF) has awarded Tanka Fund $20,000 to help sustain critical operations. The grant will support on-the-ground technical assistance and herd management demonstrations for Native buffalo ranchers. It also will help with efforts to raise awareness of the program during an unexpected funding disruption. 

Established in 2014 by Native American Natural Foods, Tanka Fund works to restore buffalo to the land, lives and economies of Native communities. The nonprofit has its roots in the Pine Ridge community and is guided by the knowledge of elders. 

Tanka Fund currently has a network of 34 Native buffalo ranchers across the country, supporting regenerative practices that enhance soil health, animal well-being and long-term land stewardship. 

“This South Dakota Fund grant will help offset the immediate impact of federal funding gaps,” said SDCF’s Senior Program Officer Ginger Nieman. “We are honored to play a small role in helping the organization sustain its operations and capacity for a better South Dakota.”  

SDCF’s South Dakota Fund makes grants to nonprofits across the state in support of culture, economic development, education, financial literacy, health and human services. Beginning in 2026, the fund is focusing on three new initiatives: child wellbeing, housing and workforce development. 

To learn more about funding opportunities through SDCF, visit SDCommunityFoundation.org.